In a landmark ruling, the Supreme Court of India has issued strict directives to combat child trafficking in hospitals.
The court has mandated the immediate suspension of hospital licenses if any newborn is found to be trafficked. Additionally, child trafficking trials must be completed within six months to ensure swift justice.
The bench of Justices JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan criticized the Allahabad High Court and the Uttar Pradesh government for handling child trafficking cases poorly, leading to accused individuals absconding. The court canceled bail for suspects in a specific case where a stolen baby was sold for ₹4 lakh.
State governments have been instructed to review recommendations from the Bhartiya Institute and implement them without delay. High courts nationwide must assess pending child trafficking trials and ensure daily proceedings for quick resolutions.
This ruling sets a strong precedent for accountability in hospitals and the judiciary, signaling zero tolerance for child trafficking in India.
